Columbia Icefield: Guided Glacier Hike
Before you book
- Meet in the Icefield Information Centre and Glacier Gallery parking lot on the north side of Highway 93, opposite the glacier: look for a black trailer and white IceWalks vans at the T-junction between the RV overflow and visitor parking. Do not go into the building or park in the Glacier View lot. A van takes you five minutes to the trailhead.
- Getting there is up to you. The centre is 128 km north of Lake Louise and 104 km south of Jasper (Parks Canada), there is no public transit, and driving the parkway needs a national park pass (CA$12.25 per adult per day in 2026). From 1 November to 31 March snow tires or chains are mandatory on the parkway.
- Parks Canada says walking on the Athabasca Glacier is not safe and lists a guided tour as the way to walk on one. The listing: 5 km return with 200 m of climb at about 2,000 m, where some people feel short of breath. A guide, micro-spikes, rain gear, poles, boots, gloves and hats are included; bring warm layers, snacks and thermal clothing.
- The listing welcomes children aged 7 to 16 who like hiking and active seniors, and rules out children under 7, people over 75, wheelchair users, and people with mobility impairments, heart problems, a cold, pre-existing conditions or low fitness.
- The listing gives no season; on 7 October 2026 its calendar showed departures. Cancellation, as listed: “Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund”.
About This Experience
A three-hour guided walk onto the Athabasca Glacier, about 5 km return with 200 m of climb, with micro-spikes and rain gear provided. You drive yourself to the Icefield Centre parking lot on the Icefields Parkway.
Highlights
- Peer into deep crevasses and witness the meltwater water pouring over the edge
- Receive all necessary equipment to comfortably and safely explore the glacier
- Walk onto the Athabasca Glacier, a principal part of the Columbia Icefield Area
- Explore the glacier on foot and enjoy iconic views of the Rockies' highest peaks
- Learn about of this unique mountain landscape through an interpretive program
What's Included
- ✓ Guide
- ✓ Micro-spikes (crampons for added traction on the ice)
- ✓ Rain gear, hiking poles, hiking boots, gloves, and hats (if you don't have your own)
- ✓ Transport from the meeting location to the trailhead
Not Included
- Warm layers (sweaters and pants)
- Transportation to the meeting location
Good to Know
- The tour is moderate in difficulty and suitable for young children (ages 7-16) who enjoy hiking and active seniors.
- The tour operates at 2000m, some guests experience shortness of breath due to the elevation
- No technical climbing experience is required
Meeting Point
From HWY 93 turn into the Icefield Information Centre and Glacier Gallery parking lot. Look for a black trailer and white vans with the IceWalks logo at the T-Junction between the overflow RV parking and visitor parking. The parking lot is on the north side of the highway (opposite the glacier). Please do not go into the building or park in the Glacier View Hotel Parking lot.
